Padres 4 Mets 2

After a game like this, you really have to wonder if Johan Santana is indeed the Mets’ “ace”.

Because an “ace” should chew up a lineup like the Padres like a buzzsaw, spit it out, and step on it on the way to an easy victory.

Instead, Santana pitched just well enough to lose.

Game Notes

Johan Santana allowed 4 earned runs on 8 hits and 4 walks, expending 108 pitches in 6 2/3 innings. His velocity was down, and — as usual — he “didn’t have his best stuff”. Of course, we’re not really sure what Johan’s “best stuff” IS any more. Yes, the Mets’ offense disappeared after Henry Blanco’s two-run homer in the second inning. Yes, an ace deserves more run support. But an “ace” doesn’t allow a team like the Padres to reach base nearly twice per inning.

Blanco was the entire story on the offensive side for the Mets. He was 1-for-2 before leaving the game for pinch-hitter Jesus Feliciano in the 8th. No, I’m not sure why the only Met to do anything all afternoon was the one who was removed from the lineup. Was he injured?